Overview & Reviews

The Ford Explorer is widely regarded as the catalyst that started America's love affair with the SUV back in the early 1990s. Certainly there were SUVs before the Explorer, but they were mostly utilitarian in nature. The Explorer was the first go-to SUV for the Everyman. Throughout its life, the Ford Explorer has delivered versatility, a reasonable amount of comfort, affordability and, perhaps most importantly, more style than a station wagon or minivan. New or used, the justifiably popular Explorer should be part of any serious SUV search.

Current Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a large three-row SUV that can accommodate up to seven passengers. There are four trim levels: base, XLT, Limited and Sport.

Though even the base version comes well-equipped, moving up the list provides luxuries such as leather seating, the Sync voice command system, a rearview camera, keyless ignition/entry and upgraded audio systems. In addition to its potent engine, the Sport trim features a sport-tuned suspension as well as unique interior/exterior trim details. Optional highlights (depending on trim level) include a navigation system, a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, a heated steering wheel and even an automatic parallel-parking system. Stability control and a multitude of airbags are standard, with blind spot and collision warning systems available on upper trims.

A 3.5-liter 290-horsepower V6 is standard on all but the Sport trim, which comes with a turbocharged version good for 365 hp. Optional on all but the Sport is a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, 240-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. All engines are hooked up to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard on all but the Sport, which has all-wheel drive standard. The latter is optional for all other Explorers equipped with the 290-hp V6.

In reviews, we've found the Ford Explorer to be one of the best choices for a family-oriented SUV. It drives well, gets good fuel economy for its class and still retains the versatility that made people like SUVs in the first place. Fitted with most of its optional high-tech features, the Explorer is also one of the most advanced SUVs available, luxury brand or not. The Explorer's most notable downside is that it doesn't provide as much third-row and cargo space as some rival large crossover SUVs, and its MyFord Touch electronics interface can be finicky to use.

Used Ford Explorer Models
The current-generation Explorer bowed for 2011. Among the big changes was a switch from body-on-frame to unibody architecture for more carlike driving dynamics and improved space efficiency. Changes have been minimal since; the turbocharged four-cylinder engine wasn't offered until 2012, while the powerful Sport trim didn't debut until the following year.

The third-generation Explorer ran from 2002-'10. A longer wheelbase and an independent rear suspension allowed room for a fairly accommodating third-row seat while also improving ride and handling performance. A 210-hp V6 was joined by a new 4.6-liter 239-hp V8, and both were matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. Initial trim levels included the XLS, XLT and more upscale Limited and Eddie Bauer.

For 2003, a few new trim levels debuted, including XLS Sport and the NBX (no boundaries experience -- we're not making that up). The latter came with all-terrain tires, special trim and a Yakima roof rack. An off-road package became available as well, complete with a beefed-up suspension and skid plates. The following year, equipment levels were shuffled, stability control was made available on most trims (previously it could only be had on V8 models) and Limited and Eddie Bauer models got a quad bucket seating option. The stability control system was upgraded with roll stability control for 2005.

For 2006, a substantial update took place that included revised styling inside and out, an improved frame, enhanced safety systems and a more powerful V8. The latter made 292 hp (up from the previous 239 hp) though the 210-hp 4.0-liter V6 continued unchanged. The V8 came paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission. Safety equipment was upgraded, too, as front-seat side airbags and stability control were made standard on all Explorers. More recent Explorers benefited from the arrival of the voice-activated Sync music/phone interface (2008) and a revised navigation system (2009).

In general we liked this Explorer and found value in the excellent ride and handling characteristics, comfortable and roomy cabin and, on V8 models, strong power and high towing capacity. Though later outclassed by newer crossover SUVs in terms of comfort and design, this Explorer is a solid pick, particularly if you plan to use a V8 model for towing.

Model years 1995-2001 represent the second generation Explorer. Though neither as refined nor as powerful as the generation that followed, this group is still a respectable choice for an SUV. For most of this generation's run, three engines were available: a standard 160-hp V6, an optional 210-hp V6 ('97 and later) and a 210-hp 5.0-liter V8. The familiar XL, XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited were the available trims, and there was a two-door Explorer known as the Sport. Editorial reviews of the time noted that the Explorer had a comfortable cabin and decent utility but fared poorly in terms of road handling and off-road ability.

The original Ford Explorer debuted in 1990 as a 1991 model, and it replaced the Bronco II in Ford's lineup. It achieved instant success in a market that it ultimately defined, if not created. Based on the Ford Ranger pickup, the original Explorer had the winning combination of size, style and utility that people wanted in an SUV. It came as the volume-selling four-door or a less popular two-door. Initially, just XLS and XLT trim levels were available. In 1992, an Eddie Bauer edition joined the lineup, and a Limited model followed shortly thereafter. For power, these Explorers had a 155-hp V6. Output went up slightly to 160 hp in 1993; this was also the year Ford made antilock brakes standard equipment.

User Reviews:

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  Love the new Explorer! - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By heymark - March 31 - 6:55 am

  Previously drove Tahoes, last was 2008 LT. Tahoe is a great SUV, but wanted something smaller & less top heavy. Test drove the Ford and was impressed. After 6 months of owning, Im still impressed. The ride is extremely smooth and quiet, especially on highway. Ive not had the problems with Myford Touch locking or freezing, but have given up on using voice commands. Interior is luxurious with upgraded seats. 2nd row has cramped leg room. Im 6 and briefcase barely fits between rows. Limiteds features are awesome.

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  2012 Best Explorer Ever - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By rockrat - March 30 - 10:02 am

  Bought this Explorer several weeks ago and must say the ride is fantastic. Very quiet, excellent handling, acceleration much better than my last Explorer V8. Four wheel drive works excellent, doesnt need a low 4WD because the first gear of the 6 speed is so low. Goes anywhere. Still learning all the electronics, loving them all so far. Getting on average 20MPG, should increase once the vehicle is broken in. Highly recommend this vehicle to everyone, so comfortable and easy to drive!

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  My second Explorer - 2013 Ford Explorer
  By cooper919 - March 22 - 10:13 pm

  I was undecided- Jeep Grand Cherokee or Ford Explorer. I had great luck with my first Explorer, but it has been six years since I drove an SUV. The styling, V6 engine (better economy than the V8 of the Jeep), and the technology is what made me choose the Ford. I love the handling and quietness of the ride. The space inside is great and despite the complaints I have read regarding the third row seating, my friends have had no issues.

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  not bad - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By sixohthree81 - March 16 - 4:52 pm

  bought this with our tax returns for $3500 from a local dealership about 2 weeks ago. went from a 92 saab 9000 to this and I LOVE IT!!! 4wd works great and the power leather seats are so comfortable. have only had 2 issues with it and 1 was the catalytic convertor needed to be welded back on as we hit a pot hole and it broke. (kinda expected it with 166000 miles) and the radio display doesnt work. radio still works just cant see what station you are on. kinda annoying but nothing to really complain about. I would recommend an explorer to all of my friends!

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  Explorer Limited in Naples - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By vinced - February 28 - 5:50 pm

  Ive driven the car for about 2 months. Overall I like the car very much. Was worried about the reliability with the reviews by the pros. So far only issue is the My Ford Touch and Nav. Ive had issues with voice command, some times doest work some times doest understand, some times system goes blank. This must be fixed with new software in March some time. The car runs great the engine has plenty of power and is smooth. The electronic steering is great and love the electronics overall. The power lift gate is a must and the rear power seats is excellent and eliminates the back of the rear seat controls, looks bettor. Controls LCD controls for radio, Nav, Air, and and phone-

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  Almost the perfect car for us - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By kris45 - February 21 - 1:27 pm

  We just acquire a 2012 Limited in silver with the EcoBoost engine fully loaded. My initial impression are just Wow. We love love this car. The interior is luxurious and well put together, the configuration of the seats is nice and flexible. I do agree with an earlier review that allowing the middle row of seats to slide forward and back a little would be helpful. The Tech: I am a big tech guy, love my toys and this car fits right in with them. Voice control, touch screen, tons of options and configuration, color changing ambient lighting is cool. Proximity key is KEY! I didnt even look at the base or XLT editions because they didnt offer this feature. (continued in Fav features!...)

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  Great SUV - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By mj9011 - February 20 - 3:06 pm

  Im not sure why all these other people are claiming to have problems because I have never had a single problem! I have owned the car since new and now has 80,000 miles and still runs like new! I will probly have this SUV for a whole lot longer and when I eventually have to get a new car I will absolutely buy Ford again! If you think that cars will never have problems then you are not thinking right. EVERY car will need repairs in its lifetime. THere is no perfect car however I think this explorer is pretty close to perfect.

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  I cant believe I bought a Ford! - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By molvaro - January 15 - 3:13 pm

  Ive always had an import vehicle... high end SUVs.. IE Lexux RX 350.. Audis... etc... My wife was looking to upgrade her 08 RX 350.. as we have 2 kids and were looking to get something with more space.. but the luxury of the lexus... Someone suggested the Ford Explorer.. and Ive driven the old ones and thought they were terrible... then came the new redesign.. WHAT AN AMAZING VEHICLE... Quiet, Comfortable, Luxurious.. just an amazing longterm vehicle.. The test drive and features will sell you in a heart beat if your apprehensive and buying a domestic, WELL DONE FORD, WELL DONE.

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  Pleased with Purchase - 2011 Ford Explorer
  By onetahoegal - January 9 - 10:48 pm

  Seats are beyond comfortable. Love the back up feature for parallel parking. The navagation system was recently updated by the Ford dealer so I dont have problems with the clock or temperature reading anymore. I can fit 6 teenagers comfortably. Noticed a tapping sound on the "A" pillar (on the passenger side). Having it replaced on warranty as its broken. Otherwise, Ive been very pleased with our purchase. This is my 2nd Ford Explorer as well.

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  2012 Explorer = Excellent SUV - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By jwinco - December 29 - 10:41 am

  Recently purchased a 2012 Explorer XLT 4WD for use in Colorado. Traded in an F-150 with the 6.2-liter V8 engine primarily for the mileage and its paid off -- mileage is about 30% better, averaging 21.5 MPG in mixed town/highway. Overall have been more impressed with the Explorer than I thought I would be. Drives and handles beautifully for an SUV -- I dont agree at all with some of the magazine reviews that the ride is too mushy. Extremely comfortable interior that is whisper quiet even at highway speeds. Its just a pleasure to be in and drive this SUV.